Is it normal to look fatter after a mini tummy tuck?

Question

I had a min tummy tuck 12 days ago. I was 122 (5’5) prior and had an hour glass shape. Now I am very fat and “boxy” looking. I also had muscle tightening and a little lipo on my flanks. I admit I have eaten more salt than I should. Is this normal and If I had muscle tightening, shouldn’t my muscles feel very tight?

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

You are very early in your recovery and you will see changes through the next several months, swelling at this point is very normal. Be sure to follow all post operative instructions and discuss all concerns with your surgeon. Good luck.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Puffiness and swelling 12 days after mini tummy tuck and liposuction is very common, but any concerns of a fluid collection or increased pain should be communicated to your plastic surgeon.

Amy T. Bandy, DO, FACS · Answer

Thank  you for your question. You are still in the very early stages of healing and you are most likely still very swollen and retaining water from trauma. I would consider you about 90% healed at 8 weeks post op and would tell you to wait until then the assess and evaluate further. Best of luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Kcowie,I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a tummy tuck surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process.Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides  you will be able to see the final result of your surgery.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your surgery!  It is far too early to judge your results.  Swelling at this phase of recovery is common and expected.  I know it's hard to be patient but more time is needed.  I encourage you to closely follow your surgeon's instructions and discuss all concerns.  It will be several weeks before you will see your final results.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

At less than two weeks from surgery, you still have a fair amount of swelling, especially in the areas treated with liposuction. Please follow your surgeon's instructions and be patient.

Emily B. McLaughlin, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Swelling is not uncommon and can be experienced for several weeks following surgery. Give your body more time to heal to see your final result. Follow up with your board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck!

Derby Sang Caputo, MD · Answer

thank you for your question. At this moment it is still very normal to be swollen from the procedure. This can easily last up to 4-6 months after surgery so no worries. Best of luck

Mokhtar Asaadi, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there, You are still in the early stages of the healing process. It is important to give your body enough time to recover. Even though you had the muscle tightening done as well it doesn't mean you will feel sore or tight. How you're feeling right now is normal and in time will change. Make sure you follow your surgeons instructions and continue follow up in office with him/her.

Is it normal to look fatter after a mini tummy tuck?

Answers (9)

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